SamerStrong Memorial Foundation

The SamerStrong Memorial Foundation's goal is to help provide financial assistance to graduating high school seniors located in the North Olmsted community and to help families affected by childhood cancer. We encourage you to keep reading to learn more about the brave, kindhearted young man who inspired the creation of this nonprofit organization.

Samer Babi was born on December 18th, 1999 in Aleppo, Syria. After living in Syria for 2 years, Samer and his family moved to the United States. Samer grew up in North Olmsted, Ohio where he was an active member of the community for 16 years.

Upon receiving his diagnosis of Stage IV alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma on May 12th, 2017, Samer was finishing up his junior year at North Olmsted High school. Despite having an illness, Samer still participated in all senior year activities. He was voted for Homecoming King and attended his senior prom.

Throughout all four years of high school Samer was an athlete. Samer participated in track for 1 year, wrestling for 2 years, and football for 4 years. He earned a varsity letter for 1 year in wrestling and for 3 years in football. Even though he was unable to play on the field his senior year, Samer was voted as captain of the football team. This competitiveness, leadership, and strength were some of Samer's most shining traits.

While in school, Samer's passion lied in the hands of business and finance. Outside of the classroom, Samer enjoyed following investments and staying up-to-date on famous businessmen, such as Elon Musk. On June 9th, 2018 Samer graduated North Olmsted High school and had his own special graduation ceremony at the Cleveland Clinic. Samer planned on attending Bowling Green State University in the Fall of 2018 to major in Finance. While at Bowling Green, Samer also hoped to play club rugby and join a fraternity.

During his free time, Samer helped volunteer with charities, such as "Shanerock" and "Jeremy Cares." Samer also helped raise money for "Kick it for Cancer" in memory of his football coach, Coach Marty Simon, who passed away from colon cancer.Other activities Samer enjoyed were playing video games, travelling, exploring the Cleveland Metroparks, weightlifting, making funny memes, and spending time with his friends, family, and girlfriend.

Samer was also a winner of the Cleveland Clinic Courage Award presented at the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission in January 2018. He used this spotlight to spread awareness on cancer research through his appearances in tv and radio interviews